HelpLine Announces Appointment of Long-Term Interim Executive Director
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DELAWARE, OH — HelpLine today announced the appointment of a long-term Interim Executive Director to guide the organization through its current leadership transition and support continued organizational stability and growth.
Jason Bridges will assume the role effective today, March 30, 2026, serving in a part-time capacity of up to 32 hours per week, Monday through Thursday.
This appointment follows a thoughtful and strategic selection process led by the HelpLine Board of Directors, in partnership with Benefactor, a firm specializing in nonprofit executive recruitment and placement. Through this collaboration, the Board identified a highly qualified leader with extensive experience in nonprofit management and organizational leadership.
“We are pleased to welcome Jason Bridges to HelpLine during this important time,” said Teri Meider, Chair of the HelpLine Board of Directors. “His experience in nonprofit executive leadership and demonstrated success in behavioral health and organizational growth will provide valuable guidance as we continue to advance our mission and support our staff, partners, and community.”
Bridges brings more than 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, including leadership roles in community-based and behavioral health organizations. Most recently, he served as Executive Director of Fairwinds, Nantucket’s community behavioral health center, where he led a period of significant growth and financial stabilization—expanding the organization’s budget from $2.6 million to more than $5 million and building integrated partnerships with healthcare providers, law enforcement, and local government to improve access to care.
His background includes expertise in organizational development, financial stewardship, community partnership building, and crisis response systems.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Wabash College and completed the Certificate Program in Nonprofit Leadership and Management at Tufts University.
In addition to his professional experience, Bridges has served on boards supporting domestic violence prevention and has volunteered with Meals on Wheels. He lives in Kirtland with his wife, Courtney, and their two daughters.
“I am honored to join HelpLine and support the organization during this transition,” said Bridges. “HelpLine has a strong reputation for serving individuals and families with care, compassion, and excellence, and I look forward to working alongside the staff and Board to ensure continued stability and impact.”
The appointment comes following the resignation of former Executive Director Dr. Tonia Pace earlier this month. Since that time, Associate Director Lauren MacDade has been serving as Interim Executive Director, ensuring continuity of leadership and operations.
HelpLine remains well-positioned for continued success. Its programs and services continue uninterrupted, and the organization maintains strong partnerships and stable funding as it moves through this transition.
Additional information about Jason Bridges and opportunities to meet him will be shared in the coming weeks.
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About HelpLine
As the community’s only 24/7 resource, HelpLine is the go-to for supporting and empowering change. Our highly trained specialists offer compassionate support to help meet the needs of anyone in crisis, connecting them with the right resources and empowering them to thrive. Our prevention programs address suicide and depression, sexual assault, child sexual abuse, and family violence to influence change in our community. Rooted in strong partnerships with local nonprofits and agencies, HelpLine connects community members with the support, education, and volunteer opportunities they need to live healthy, connected lives. For more information, visit helplinedelmor.org.
Contact:
Tamika Vinson-Reid,
Marketing and Development Director
HelpLine
P: 740.363.1835, ext. 305
F: 740.369.0358
E: tvinson@helplinedelmor.org
W: helplinedelmor.org